Apple Warns of Apple Pay Text Scam

A sophisticated scam targeting Apple Pay users has emerged across the United States and Europe, prompting warnings from Apple and consumer protection groups. The fraud begins with unsolicited text messages claiming suspicious activity on victims' accounts, urging them to call a provided phone number for immediate assistance. Those who comply often connect with imposters posing as Apple support staff, bank representatives, or law enforcement officers, who then pressure recipients into transferring funds under the guise of protecting their money.

The scam relies on social engineering tactics rather than technical hacks into devices. Messages typically alert users to a declined purchase, locked account, or ongoing fraud investigation, creating panic to prompt quick action. Scammers avoid suspicious links, instead directing victims to dial a fraudulent number, which feels safer to many. Once on the call, fraudsters use stolen personal details to build credibility and apply high-pressure urgency, insisting that funds are at imminent risk. Victims may be instructed to withdraw cash, move money to a so-called secure account, send payments via Apple Pay or Apple Cash, or purchase gift...